Brindisi: Wine tasting in the cellar

This experience made our article of Brindisi’s 5 Top Wine Tours.

Brindisi: Wine Tasting in the Cellar

Imagine stepping into a centuries-old winery in Brindisi, surrounded by barrels and the warm aroma of local wines. For just $33 per person, you get to enjoy a guided tasting of five distinct wines in the intimate setting of Cantine Risveglio. Led by Angelo Brandi, a professional sommelier, this experience offers a taste of genuine Puglian character—perfect for curious beginners or seasoned wine lovers alike. The tour lasts around a couple of hours, making it a manageable yet memorable part of your trip.

What we love most about this experience is how inviting and authentic it feels. First, the welcoming atmosphere of the historic cellar makes you feel like a guest in someone’s personal collection, rather than just another tourist. Second, the in-depth story-telling about each grape variety adds layers of understanding and appreciation, turning a simple tasting into a cultural journey. One minor consideration is that the experience is held indoors, so those seeking outdoor vineyard views might find it limited in that regard.

This tasting is especially suited for travelers who want to slow down and savor local flavors in a relaxed setting. If you’re interested in learning about Puglia’s diverse grape varieties or simply enjoy discovering wines in a genuine, no-pressure environment, this tour offers excellent value and authentic insight.

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Key Points

Authentic Setting: Tasting inside a historic winery with a cozy, evocative atmosphere.
Expert Guidance: Led by Angelo Brandi, a knowledgeable and passionate sommelier.
Focused Selection: Five single-varietal wines, including Negroamaro, Susumaniello, and Verdeca.
Educational & Sensory: Learn about the history of the grapes and the land, while exploring aromas and colors.
Affordable Price: At $33, it offers a meaningful introduction to Puglian wines without breaking the bank.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What’s Included and the Value

For $33 per person, you receive a guided tasting of five single-varietal wines: Negroamaro, Susumaniello, Nero di Troia, Riserva DOC Brindisi, and Verdeca. Each glass is more than just a drink; it’s a portal into Puglia’s terroir and history. Angelo Brandi, the sommelier, makes it easy for beginners to follow along, translating wine terminology into friendly storytelling. The experience also includes an introduction to the history of the grape varieties and the territory, which helps you understand why these wines are unique to this part of Italy.

The tour of the winery itself adds depth, giving you a glimpse of the cellar’s historic ambiance. You won’t get a full production visit here, but the focus is on tasting and storytelling, which suits most visitors looking for an authentic flavor of local culture. Plus, there’s an opportunity to purchase wines directly from the winery, with the option of worldwide shipping—an excellent way to bring a piece of Italy home.

Setting and Atmosphere

The tasting takes place in a small, evocative cellar that feels like stepping back in time. The intimate setting fosters a sense of connection—you’re not just a number in a large group, but part of a small, friendly gathering. This is perfect for those who prefer quality over quantity, and who want to truly listen and savor.

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The Guide and the Tasting

Angelo Brandi’s approach is approachable. No technical wine jargon here—just stories, aromas, and colors. He guides you through each glass, explaining how the wines reflect the land, climate, and passion behind each bottle. Reviewers praise his friendly manner and insightful commentary, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. As one guest notes, “He made us feel like friends sharing a glass of wine in his own cellar.”

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What to Expect from the Wines

You’ll taste five different wines, each highlighting a specific grape. Negroamaro offers deep, dark fruit flavors—think blackberries and plums—balanced with earthy notes. Susumaniello is known for its lively acidity and bright berry profile. Nero di Troia brings a structured, medium-bodied red with a hint of spice. The Riserva DOC Brindisi showcases a well-aged, more refined expression of local grapes, and Verdeca is a crisp white with floral and citrus notes.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is particularly suited for beginners or those who simply want a relaxed, authentic wine experience without the fuss of a large commercial winery. It’s ideal for travelers interested in local culture and stories, rather than just tasting wine. If you’re a bit unsure about your wine knowledge but eager to learn from a passionate guide, this experience hits the sweet spot.

Considerations and Practicalities

Transportation: Not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the winery.
Duration: About 2 hours, a manageable amount of time for most travelers.
Group Size: Likely small, given the intimate setting.
Language: Offered in both Italian and English, making it accessible for most visitors.
Booking & Refunds: You can reserve with flexibility—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Why We Think It’s a Great Choice

If you’re after a genuine taste of Puglia’s wine culture in a relaxed, friendly environment, this tasting hits the mark. It offers more than just drinking wine; it’s about understanding the land, the grapes, and the passion that go into each bottle. The price point is reasonable considering the quality of guidance and the personal, authentic setting.

While it doesn’t include a full winery tour or outdoor vineyard views, it compensates with rich storytelling and a chance to get close to local wine traditions. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a slower, more meaningful experience over quick visits or large group tastings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works well for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge, cultural travelers interested in local stories, or beginners wanting to start their wine journey in a welcoming environment. It’s perfect for those looking for a quality, low-pressure experience in a historic setting. Keep in mind it’s not designed for children or pregnant women, and transportation arrangements will be on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included with this tour?
No, transportation to and from the winery is not included, so you’ll need to organize your own.

Can I book this experience for a specific date and time?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

What wines will I taste?
You will taste five single-varietal wines: Negroamaro, Susumaniello, Nero di Troia, Riserva DOC Brindisi, and Verdeca.

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Yes, the experience is designed to be approachable, with no technical knowledge required.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women.

Can I purchase wines at the end of the tasting?
Absolutely, there’s an opportunity to buy wines directly from the winery, with worldwide shipping available.

How long does the tasting last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it a relaxed and manageable experience.

Is the experience offered in English?
Yes, the tour is available in both Italian and English.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind when booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Brindisi and want to experience a genuine slice of local wine culture, this cellar tasting provides excellent value. It’s a chance to taste authentic wines, learn their stories, and appreciate the land that produces them—all in a cozy, welcoming setting. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, educational experience that goes beyond just drinking wine, this tour is a delightful way to connect with Puglia’s rich wine heritage.

Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, the combination of expert guidance and authentic atmosphere makes this a memorable addition to your trip. Just remember to book early, bring an open mind, and prepare to enjoy a sensory journey through some of Puglia’s best wines.